Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist in Holmdel, NJ

Don't Let Stiff Joints Slow You Down

Case #7556

Hand arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis of the hand, is the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the small hand joints, bringing pain, joint stiffness, and swelling that can turn opening jars, turning keys, or gripping a wheel into a daily challenge.

It rarely shows up all at once. More often, it’s a sore thumb joint after an afternoon of hands-on chores at Longstreet Farm, or fingers that ache after unloading the car from a farmers market run. Thumb arthritis and other forms of hand and wrist arthritis in Holmdel, NJ, are common, and while it can’t be reversed, you can manage pain and preserve function.

Benefits of Hand Arthritis Treatment

Managing hand arthritis focuses on easing pain, preserving joint function, and keeping you doing the activities that matter to you.

Reduced pain and stiffness during gripping, pinching, and fine motor tasks
Improved joint stability for daily activities
Slowed progression of joint damage with early intervention
Restored function through joint reconstruction or replacement in advanced cases
Guidance on activity modification to protect joints long-term

Am I a Good Candidate for Hand Arthritis Treatment?

Osteoarthritis of the hand often causes joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that worsens with activity and eases with rest, particularly at the thumb base, knuckles, or wrist.

You may be a good candidate for treatment if you notice:

Joint stiffness or aching in the fingers, thumb base, or wrist, especially in the morning
Reduced grip strength or difficulty with fine motor tasks
A grinding or grating sensation when moving an affected joint
Visible joint enlargement or changes in finger alignment over time

Your consultation includes an exam of the affected joints, plus imaging if needed, to map out the right options for your stage of arthritis.

Concerns Addressed by Hand Arthritis

Swelling or tenderness that limits comfortable use of your hands
Joint pain that worsens with repetitive use, such as typing or gripping tools
Everyday tasks like opening jars or turning keys becoming harder over time
Uncertainty about which joints are affected and how advanced the arthritis has become

What to Expect During Hand Arthritis Treatment

Check-In and Preparation

We evaluate joint damage through physical exam and imaging to determine which surgical approach, if any, fits your case.

The Procedure

Depending on the joint and severity, your surgeon may perform a joint fusion for stability or a joint replacement to preserve motion, most often at the base of the thumb.

Closing Up

Incisions are closed with sutures, and a splint or cast protects the joint during initial healing.

Recovery Room

You'll be observed briefly as anesthesia wears off before being cleared to head home.

Heading Home

Arrange a ride and plan for limited hand use during the first phase of recovery.

Before and After Care Guidelines

Before Your Surgery

Discuss all conservative options with our team before deciding on surgery
Arrange help at home, since hand use will be limited afterward
Plan for time away from tasks that require fine motor grip

After Your Surgery

Expect swelling and stiffness in the treated joint for several weeks
A splint or cast typically supports the joint during initial healing
Hand therapy is often recommended to restore motion and strength
Return to light activity generally takes several weeks, with full recovery taking longer

Why Choose Samra Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery for Arthritis Treatment?

Board-certified plastic surgery practice with more than four decades of experience
A conservative-first approach that reserves surgery for cases that truly need it
Individualized treatment matched to joint and arthritis stage
Coordinated care alongside hand therapy for full functional recovery
Proudly serving Monmouth and Middlesex counties

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hand arthritis be cured?

Arthritis can’t be reversed, but its symptoms can be effectively managed, and surgery can restore significant function and pain relief in more advanced cases.

Do I need surgery for hand arthritis?

Not necessarily. Many manage symptoms with splinting, activity changes, and medication. Surgery is reserved for cases where conservative treatment no longer helps.

Which joint does thumb arthritis affect most often?

The base of the thumb is one of the most frequently affected joints, though arthritis can also develop in the knuckles and wrist.

How long is recovery after joint replacement or fusion surgery?

Initial healing takes several weeks, with hand therapy continuing afterward to rebuild strength and motion.

Will arthritis develop in other joints after treatment?

Treating one joint doesn’t prevent arthritis elsewhere, so ongoing monitoring of your hand and wrist health remains part of long-term care.

Ready to Explore Hand Arthritis Treatment in Holmdel, NJ?

Schedule a consultation with Samra Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery to talk through your options for hand arthritis. Call us at 732-327-0249 or contact us online.